‘Reliability’ is the new hot thing in broadband networks

As broadband operators pursue network upgrades, it’s not only about bringing faster speeds to customers. Reliability of the network is now pretty important too, according to Damian Poltz, SVP of wireline networks at Rogers Communications. In Rogers’ perspective, the broadband market is shifting to “really start to focus” on reliability, as customers say they value an interruption-free connection the most. Erik Kuhlmann, senior director of engineering and architecture at GCI, noted challenges not just in network reliability but scalability as well. Working on network upgrades is easier said than done in Alaska, which has a shorter construction window of around six to seven months per year. Node segmentation, or when operators deploy more nodes within a service area to provide higher bandwidth per home and business, is one method GCI’s employing to help manage overall bandwidth capability.